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Caninpedia

Dalmatian vs English Pointer

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Photo of the Dalmatian dog breed
DalmatianPhoto: Bradlien — CC BY-SA 4.0 (source)
Photo of the English Pointer dog breed
English PointerPhoto: Canarian — CC BY-SA 3.0 (source)

Side by side

Comparison of Dalmatian and English Pointer
TraitDalmatianEnglish Pointer
GroupScent houndsPointing dogs
SizeLargeLarge
Weight24–32 kg20–34 kg
Height at withers54–62 cm61–69 cm
Life expectancy11–13 years12–15 years
Energy
With children
With other dogs
Trainability
Grooming needs
Shedding
Heat tolerance
ApartmentNot recommendedNot recommended

Key differences

  • Taller: English Pointer (about 65 cm vs 58 cm on average)
  • Sheds more: Dalmatian (4/5 vs 2/5)

Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.

Which one is right for you?

A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.

Apartment living
Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
Family with children
Both are similarBased on behaviour with children.
First-time owner
Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
Hot climate
English Pointer is the better fitBased on heat tolerance.
Active owner
Both are similarBased on energy level.

Meet the two breeds

Dalmatian

Famous for its white coat with black or liver spots, the Dalmatian is a tireless, cheerful athlete deeply attached to its family.

Read the full Dalmatian profile

Other comparisons